Poster 39

• DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2003.08.055
• Publication Date: 2003-10-11T19:04:32Z
• Authors: Sandra A. Billinger; James K. Cho; Vicki Bouckhout; Denise Gobert
• Keywords: Hemiparesis; Stroke; Repeated measures design; Chronic stroke

Abstract Objective: To examine changes in hand function of chronic stroke survivors participating in exercise using a total body recumbent stepper (TBRS). Design: Case series. Setting: University medical school. Participants: 11 participants (8 men; age, 61.3±11.0y) >6 months poststroke with mild to moderate hemiparesis (6 with right side involvement). Intervention: An 8-week exercise program using TBRS 3 times a week for 30 minutes per session. Main Outcome Measures: Functional Rating Score (FRS) from the Wolf Motor Function Test and bilateral grip strength measured by dynamometry. Results: Statistical analyses were conducted using a repeated-measures 2×2×4 factorial analysis of variance for factors of gender and the more affected side along with time. Results indicated a significant interaction of the intervention with left grip strength. Left grip strength increased from 13.44±8.92lb to 16.72±7.23lb after intervention. Values were significant at P Conclusion: Improvements in function and strength are possible for chronic stroke survivors participating in exercise involving a TBRS.